A Franciscan-inspired Bible Study plan
St. Francis didn’t overthink what God asked. He just lived it. When he died 17 years after his conversion, his movement had spread across Europe and the Middle East.
Father Dave Mercer
Fr. Dave Mercer is a retired priest in Silicon Valley. He most recently served on the Mescalero Apache Reservation in New Mexico.
Latest articles by Father Dave Mercer
A-E-I-O-U: Simple 5-step Bible study for Sunday’s readings
Here are the ABCs for a DIY Bible study, to better prepare you and your friends for the most important moment of the week.
How to start a home Bible study group
A simple do-it-yourself approach can make it happen, and no, you don't have to be a Scripture scholar!
The one-second gesture that defines your whole life
Making the Sign of the Cross can be less about habit and more about choice. If we put some mental effort into it, it can be the strategy for our whole lives.
Can you explain why you are Catholic?
Here's an idea for a 30-second answer that will not only inspire, it will also fulfill a Gospel invitation. And crafting this answer will help you more than anyone else.
Being less than perfect is perfectly acceptable
We're all seasick, plus what to do with the weeds: A reflection on the Gospel for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time.
6 Catholic sayings to inspire your mission in life
These one-liners are worth remembering as they just might help you orient your whole life.
Science and religion don’t mix? Let’s test the evidence
I suggest a simple use of the “scientific method” to support the historical and current cooperation of science and religion.
A father celebrates Christmas in April
When a father has a single-minded desire for what’s good for his family, he usually doesn’t care what others might think ...
As Matthew is proclaimed at Mass, listen for these themes
Throughout the stories, miracles, parables, sermons, and teachings of these next months, Matthew will focus on Jesus’ teachings about bringing the kingdom from the Old into the New.
Can you explain why you go to Mass?
A 30-second answer is a good thing to have prepared and ready to go.
The voice that never leaves us: May, mothers, and Mary
Who catches himself or herself sounding just like their moms? I ask this question at Mass and everyone laughs and every hand in the church always goes up.
Is a priest removed from life’s realities? Here’s my answer
I allowed the 8th graders to ask me anything they wanted, and anonymously. One double question stunned me, but I think the Holy Spirit gave the answer.
A handy prayer for many occasions
You can take this simple prayer with you wherever you go ...
6 Tips for inviting someone to Mass
Often all a person needs is a friendly invitation from someone they trust, such as a friend, relative, or co-worker — someone like you.
6-Point Catholic checklist when war is on the news
Principles have guided Catholics for centuries when it comes to war. Why not print them out and keep them near the places you watch or read the news?
4 Keys to make sure Sunday Mass shapes your week
A girl's unique take on the church's exit sign had a lesson even for the local bishop.
What we’re really saying when we receive ashes
Ash Wednesday is a simple act of truth-telling.
What the Grinch, Scrooge, and 2 Kings tell us about Christmas
“Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”
A 1st-time mother’s insight helped me explain the Mass
Catholics do not “re-sacrifice” Jesus on Sunday. He died once and for all, in Jerusalem some 2,000 years ago.